As surprising as this might be to some, the concepts of driving hard and owning a low car are not mutually exclusive. Although I do understand why some would have this preconception, as it’s rare to see a car that has been lowered with proper consideration for the changed geometry and road compliance.
I’m a huge fan of low cars, which will come as no surprise to a lot of people. Cars just look better low, it’s science*.
However, I feel that a lot of people who don’t share my enthusiasm base their opinions on cars that are poorly lowered. And to be fair, there are a lot of them out there. But there are a lot of good ones out there too and these are the ones worth exploring and talking about.
This is one of the good ones.
I know this because I know the gentleman who built the car. I know his past, his level of experience and his genuine passion for making sure that everything is done right. I also know that to get to this particular photo location, he had to drive over 935 miles across several countries and almost infinite combinations and variations of road surfaces. He then had to drive back.
It would be criminal to describe this as being just a low Porsche. It’s an exercise in subtle but choice modifications; a car where every change has resulted in an improvement. With 300hp from a glorious sounding flat-six, it’s the perfect car for cruising across Europe to a place called Wörthersee…
From Passion To CareerI first met Rich at Ultimate Dubs in the UK several years back, where we arranged to shoot a particular supercharged Golf at his workshop a couple of days later. Since then, we’ve travelled to Austria together in 2013 before we met again at Wörthersee earlier this year. You might remember his red Cayman which has made an appearance on here a couple of times, but his real pride and joy is this 1993 911 Type 964.
To understand this car better, you have to know a little bit about Rich. With eight years at BMW, followed by 11 years at Porsche and counting as a senior technician, you might say he has a little bit of experience with Porsche platforms. Not to mention his time spent with the Carrera Cup GB cars and the Porsche Super Cup cars.
Around four years ago he established Milestone71, a Porsche and VW Group specialist tuning shop which deals with everything from classic air-cooled Porsches to Carrera GTs and the most recent models in the Porsche line-up. What Rich and in-turn Milestone71 are particularly fond of though, is researching and developing how to get the very best – from both a performance handling and safety aspect – from Porsche vehicles which are being run in an ultra-low setup.
It was through Milestone71’s official role as an authorised KW Suspensions Ultra Low dealer and installer, that Rich was able to perfect the setup on his own 964.
Starting with KW’s Variant 3 Ultra Low coil-over system, which in itself allows maximum damper travel whilst retaining a low driving height, Rich specifies a custom spring rate with KW for this application.
With the system installed, Rich has developed a geometry setup that completely eliminates bump steer, a symptom which typically plagues lowered 911s. Most will use a more solid suspension bushing for a more performance-orientated feel, but Rich chose to retain the factory bushes – refreshed with new items throughout of course – as he believes they give better road compliance.
Another element is the use of modified Carrera 2 ‘rubber-type’ top mounts at the front, again which result in better compliance on the road and a more comfortable drive.
(Unfortunately, we couldn’t get under the car to show you this setup at the time of shooting, but we’re going to try get some shots from Rich which we’ll post in the comments section below.)
So whilst the car may look like it’s about to chew its own fenders off, the reality is that it simply doesn’t. Correct wheel and tyre combinations also play a part in this, so the custom-built Rotiform STRs had to be a millimetre-perfect fit on this car. And they are.
If memory serves me correctly, the car used to be Guards Red, but after a couple of years Rich wanted something a little braver. Technically, the car is still a shade of red, that is, Rubystone Red to give it its proper title.
It’s rare that we talk about paint finishes on Speedhunters, but the paint here is the epitome of flawless. Under the harsh sun, high in the Central Alps, everywhere the sun hit the paint showed not a single blemish, scuff or swirl mark.
For a car that’s in regular use, I think that’s an incredible accomplishment. Anyone who cares about their paintwork will acknowledge the amount of time and effort that goes into maintaining the perfect finish, which is usually overlooked by the majority of people. Honestly, I’m a little jealous.
Sophisticated FunI always flinch when I realise that I have to shoot the engine bay on a 911, as there’s typically not much to see. The incredibly economical packaging that Porsche has perfected over the decades prohibits any sort of mechanical voyeurism.
That doesn’t change the fact that there has been plenty of love and care put into this 3.6-litre flat-six. Rich completed the complete rebuild of the engine himself, which features lots of custom work and 964 Cup and 996 GT3 components. The pistons and con-rods have been balanced and weight-matched, whilst the barrels have been weight-matched too.
The cylinder heads have been mildly ported and polished. Rich says that it’s key not to go overboard with this aspect or else it hinders heat dissipation.
The gearbox has also been rebuilt using modified 2nd and 3rd gear synchros from a GT3 and a 997 GT3 limited slip differential. The result of these rebuilds and extensive care result in around 300hp being transferred from the engine to the road.
The interior is pretty neat too and has been created specifically for the purpose of travelling long distances in comfort.
The lower half of the dashboard is from a 993 and the seats are adaptive sports items from a 997, the backs of which have been colour-coded to match the car’s exterior.
As has the custom tachometer, which features a vertical drop needle and the Milestone71 logo. It’s a small but nice detail that sums up the car.
The rear seats have been deleted with a 964 RS carpet set in their place. Rich was very enthusiastic about this carpet, probably a little bit too much so…
I quite liked the stealthy approach to the in-car entertainment setup. The simple Kenwood DAB head-unit feeds a Rockford Fosgate amplifier, two speakers and a subwoofer enclosure which is hidden in the glovebox. Again, it’s tidy, unobtrusive and serves its purpose very well.
This car very much appeals to me. I like how it’s low slung but still remains functional. I like that it’s narrow-bodied and maintains the original silhouette. I like that it retains its original character with a few modern creature comforts and the benefits of years of research and development. It’s sophisticated, it’s fun and I can’t imagine a situation where it would ever feel out of place.
Most of all, I like that it’s a car that’s built to be driven. And does it drive…
Paddy McGrath
Instagram: pmcgphotos
Twitter: pmcgphotos
paddy@speedhunters.com
*It’s not science.
Richard Payne’s 1993 Porsche 911 Type 964
Numbers
Max Power: 300hp, Max Torque: 320Nm, Weight: 1350kg
Engine
Milestone71-prepared 3.6-litre F6, balanced/weight-matched pistons & connecting rods, weight-matched barrels, Milestone71 de-cat, Milestone71 Cup exhaust with Cup final silencer
Driveline
Rebuilt OE gearbox with modified 2nd & 3rd gear synchro from GT3, 997 GT3 LSD
Suspension
Milestone71 spec KW Variant 3 Ultra Low coil-overs, new OE suspension bushes, Modified Carrera 2 front top mounts (rubber type), monoball type rear top mounts
Wheels/Tires
Front: Rotiform STR 18×9-inch wheels, Contintental 215/35R18 tyres, Rear: Rotiform STR 18×10.5-inch wheels with four inch lips, Continental 255/30R18 tyres
Exterior
Full re-paint in Porsche 964 RS 1991/92 Rubystone Red (Stern Rubin), front plate recess shortened, RS brake ducts, clear indicators, tinted headlamps, front side repeaters removed, 964 carbon Cup mirrors, 993 door handles, 993 rear side windows, 964 RS lightweight rear window, US-spec rear bumper
Interior
Porsche 997 adaptive front seats with colour coded rear seat shells, rear seat delete, RS rear carpet set, 993 under-dash section, dashboard & door tops re-trimmed in Alcantara, 993 RS steering wheel, Marble Grey instruments, custom Milestone71 colour-coded tachometer with vertical drop needle, carbon fibre centre console trim, 993 Turbo S gear knob, one-off stereo install with hidden subwoofer enclosure under dash, Rockford Fosgate speakers, Rockford Fosgate amplifier, Kenwood DAB head-unit
Porsche 911 related stories on Speedhunters
Cutting Room Floor
Gotta hand it to you! By far my fav photos for a while now. Great scenery! Loved the article keep up the good work
CharlesChris15 I just had to show up, Rich and nature done the hard work.
Hello new wallpaper...
Great article! and by the way how do you find out about car meets, shows and events in Ireland? I would love to know more about the car culture in Ireland
KacperMaz99 That's a good one, it's just a case of joining local forums and getting to know people. The Cars & Coffee events in Dublin might be a good place to start. Only meets I've been to here have been organised amongst friends to they tend to be quiet affairs. Well, quiet-ish...
350kg?
@Julian Yup, super-duper-lightweight...
*runs to story editor*
Paddy McGrath KacperMaz99 Thanks the only ones I really went to are at Mondello Park and just on the streets. I'll definitely check out the forums and cars & coffee events. Thanks again
Are the wheels total knock-offs of the Porsche "phone dial" wheels or do they use the OE faces and convert to split?
Brilliant in every way, especially the colour and finishing. Particularly like the nod to the 997 with colour coded seat shells. Sunroof's a nice option to have. Also pleased he hasn't gone with the token rear cage when it's not a) an RS or b) a track car - keeps it's identity and purpose in check.
I absolutely love Rich's cars. I commute past him most days and seeing the changes they go through daily has been great. From the Cayman to the Golf cabrio and Van, to this, they're all spot on. Brilliant photos too (Y)
Why would you want hassle?!
The Phone Dials only ever came in 15-inch & 16-inch, so these would be considered a modern interpretation of the classic wheel. Rotiform always pay homage to classic designs like this within the name of the wheel. In this case, the wheels are called 'STR' which is the airport code for Stuttgart, the home of Porsche.
I always liked that little detail.
Speedhunters that colour <3
Kubamax9 Speedhunters Agreed
Nice opening shot. Is that tire smoke lingering in the distance?
I love your pics!!! But next time please photoshop so the car is black/silver/yellow for those blinded by pink
magenta.
I, personally, don't hate low cars. I think the right car with the right drop can look amazing. However, I find that most try to go too low. Certain cars can look good all the way dropped but, IMO, not all can. To me, this Porsche is one of those cars that is simply too low. I can totally admire the worksmanship and good on the owner for bulding a car for himself to enjoy but I just can't honestly say that it looks "right". Again, all my opinion. Great little feature btw.
They say if you want to make money,put it in stock market, I say put it in 964's and make some serious cash flipping them, but we all know we will find some reason to keep them....
Those dial a MILF Rotiforms are sweet.....you youngsters won't get the joke.
Kanojo No Carrera!
Stunning work on the photos. The more I look at the color, the more I like it. What a beautiful machine.
That picture right after the video tho...
When you sai "Built to drive low", I was expecting it to be the kind that is ground-scraping low. This ride height is rather normal on 911s, but the overall build of this car speaks high quality. I like how Rich mix-and-match old parts with new.
You are more than forgiven for not being able to get some underside shots of this car, you have (and did) a better chance of getting good engine bay shots in this thing.
The Frankenstein nature of this car really has it's claws in me, from the small details tidying up the interior or sourcing engine and drivetrain equipment from various models, everything really ties up the big picture. And those phone dial wheels! The color is definitely bold, and I think that because it still makes me second guess it every time I look at it is in fact what is so appealing to me. Not something I would ever consider of my own accord for a vehicle of my own, but I'm loving the statement it makes.
John Key NZ It's not pink! xD
Johnno2 Clouds, which might give you an idea how high up we were.
jbfromsiliconvalley It's rare I get to feel young, so thanks for that!
TheGentleman Rich was lucky enough to buy this 964 pre-Porsche bubble. I'm very jealous of his foresight because the car has easily trebled in value since.
tunerguy21 Good on you for at least qualifying your opinion. Each to their own and all that.
Big Pooky Thank you, I'm a huge fan of the colour FWIW.
IRONWOLF RD I would definitely rock a (not) pink 911.
jay8393 You're right that 911s tend to be a bit lower than most anyways, but some people will still struggle with how low this is.
Drift13UK My personal bias is towards the Caddy. It's awesome.
Rich was kind enough to send this for those curious: a Milestone71 specification unit on the left, a stock unit on the right.
Lovely photos, the colour of the car in contrast to the scenery just makes me think happy
I've never been a fan of Porches but this one ticks all the boxes, the colour (not pink), the attention to detail, and the fact that really, this could probably be driven daily if you really wanted.
Incredible pictures and scenery, I intend to go there at some point as a mate of mine has a super rare Mk2 Golf 20v G60 Syncro.
Also Paddy, I spent nearly an entire day reading and loving all the photos on your website. Brilliant work and properly inspiring, makes me want my own decent camera. Your 'how to' on shooting cars was great!
REKT_Disco So you're my one reader! I really should update my own site, it's a bit behind...
Love the driving video! What camera was used to get the driver POV?
LouisYio stunning isn't it
uoeno GoPro Hero 4 Silver
mounted on a helmet? or gopro head strap?
uoeno Just the headstrap. You look like a pillock wearing it, but the camera angle is pretty much perfect. Just need to get an external mic for it next.
cool, i was thinking of getting the head strap and hat clip. thanks for the info!
tunerguy21
+1
Also the wheels are a good 1.5" too wide for the tyres but that's what we've come to expect from rotiform I guess. Again my opinion but you wouldn't want to do any hard cornering or the tyre would be coming off the rim!
can you provide the offsets?
Paddy McGrath IRONWOLF RD This honestly reminds me of a TV character that is insistent that his shirt is "Faded Salmon", except I'm replacing it with "Rubystone Red", haha.
As a repaint, I don't think I could do it. But if I got my grubby hands on this prime example, I would definitely rock it with no apologies. A frankencar of this caliber doesn't say "sorry".
my dream car...totally love it in this colour
my dream car...totally love it in this colour
my dream car...totally love it in this colour
Wow! This is so beautiful, the attention to detail, the amount of work and everything coming together and working as it is suppose to. I take my hat off to you sir. You have build one amazing car. It's so subtle, yet outrages at the same time. Must've cost you an arm and a leg. Did the 964 run Torsion Bars as well?
What a beaut! Amazing car, brilliant photos....a painting next surely!
Gorgeous exterior. Gorgeous interior. Awesome tach. Gorgeous wheels. Well done sir.
A dual exhaust and whale tail are crying out to me.
is the cloud in the photo where he's standing next to the car photoshopped?
This looks absolutely stunning! I was recently talking to a friend about Porsches, and how RWB had kinda ruined stock bodied 911's for us, there was just something off compared to how aggressive the RWB cars are. But I will admit this looks stunning, just shows that with the right drop and wheels, along with attention to detail the stock body cars can still look really good!
Ujean Yes, but only at the rear end. Front end suspension was changed to McPherson.
Krakatau Ujean Thanx for the reply. I'm guessing a TB delete was done and rear coilovers inserted, to achieve that stance without too much compromise to the ride.
@pommychris tunerguy21
Well thats a lie! I have run some fairly strong stretch in the past and never had issues with tyres popping off. Look at the amount of drift cars running silly stretch without issues. It's not as secure as a standard tire but to say it would be unsafe to drive hard on them would be stretching the truth far more than any tire!
You're entitled to your opinion but your facts are wrong
Ujean Krakatau there are no torsion bars to delete. 964 was the first 911 without torsion bars...
xcoldricex Ujean Krakatau Aaaah that is really interesting. Thanx for the update. Make me wonder why the new civic type R is using torsion bars whereas most cars moved away from it
gratrow96 It is not, we were pretty high up. Thank you for the compliment!
JoshuaWhitcombe I think the narrow stock bodies are just simply beautiful, especially when they're a little bit closer to the earth.
xcoldricex I'll try find out for you, but the wheels are completely custom so you likely won't be able to buy a set off the shelf. Although I'm sure the information will still be useful
xcoldricex yes, you´re right, at the rear end is a semi-trail unit instead of tosrion bar
Ujean xcoldricex Krakatau New CTR has torsion beam rear suspension, not torsion bar. Torsion beam is pretty widely used on fwd cars due to it being simple, compact and especially cheap.
Vittorio Jano Ujean xcoldricex Krakatau Aaaah thanx guys, you learn something new everyday. Now i just need to understand what a semi-trail unit is lol
Pretty sure there is a lot of RS bits on this after speaking to Rich at ultimate dubs a couple of years back, rear screen etc, bits most non 911 owners wouldn't even notice...
For what it's worth the car is a lot less 'Pink' in the flesh!
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go take a look at a real rubystone red...its red in colour and not pink. that porsche rubystone red is clearly pink and not red...cmon, name dont fool the eyes